"I look forward to continuing the excellent rapport we've built over the decades with recreational anglers and commercial fishermen on the Eastern Shore, and stand ready to assist any and all law enforcement agencies who need our expertise and equipment," Ballard said. "I believe in the mission and values of the Virginia Marine Police, and promise we will continue to serve the public with integrity."

A lifelong resident of the Eastern Shore, Ballard has been a Marine Police officer since 1993, and has been a sergeant since 1996. Before joining the Virginia Marine Police, he was a Northampton County Sheriff's deputy, and an officer with the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. He brings a wealth of experience to his new position.

His hobbies include hunting, fishing and boating. He and his wife, Claudia, live in Willis Wharf. They have a grown son, Christopher.

The Virginia Marine Police are the front-line defenders of tidal natural resources, and comprise the largest division within the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. The Marine Police is the second-oldest law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth.

Originally formed in 1875 as the Oyster Navy, the Virginia Marine Police enforce state and federal commercial and recreational fishery laws and regulations.

They have full law enforcement arrest powers throughout the Commonwealth.